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Ask A Vet: What Should My Dog Weigh?

We know that obesity shortens lives and impacts overall health. The trouble is that when you see your dog every day, it is hard to tell exactly what their perfect weight might be. Be aware that “ideal weight” for dogs is not a number on a scale because dogs come in so many shapes and sizes. Studies show that healthy-weight dogs can live an extra 2.5 years longer than their overweight counterparts. Look at your dog with a critical eye. … Read more

12 Tips To Stop Your Dog From Bothering You While You’re Eating

As much as we love our dogs, sharing a meal with them constantly staring, begging, or trying to steal food can be frustrating. Fortunately, there are ways to discourage this behavior and make dining a more pleasant experience for everyone. Here are 12 effective tips to help your dog become a better dinner guest and to keep those puppy-dog eyes away from your plate. #1 – Teach “Leave It” Teaching your dog the “leave it” command is one of the … Read more

The Leash Matters – When To Use What Type

Why did you choose the leash you did? Maybe based on color or because a friend or trainer recommended it? Many of us don’t take a lot of time thinking about the leash. We just fasten the nearest one to our dog’s collar and go. But the leash is very important. It keeps your dog under control and affects your safety, your dog’s, and that of other animals or people nearby. So next time you reach for the leash, stop … Read more

Ask A Dog Trainer: How Do I Train My Dog For Teeth Brushing?

Training your puppy to tolerate having their teeth brushed can be quite a challenge, but it is worth the extra effort. This way, as an adult, your dog will have no issues when it comes to getting his teeth cared for. Have an older dog? These tips will help you get them used to the teeth brushing process, too! Choose A Toothbrush Like with people, there are several types of toothbrushes you can buy. When picking one out, there are … Read more

How To Get your Dog To Leave Something Alone On Command

“Leave it” is one of the most valuable cues we can teach our dogs. It can save them from eating something harmful, from chasing a car or stealing your steak. It’s so important that most dog trainers teach it in puppy and/or beginner obedience. However the easy version of leave a cookie in mom’s open hand or on the floor of the training room is a far cry from what we expect our dogs to do in real life: leave … Read more

How To Help Your Dog Cope With Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety in dogs is one of the worst behavioral issues. Dogs suffering from it can be extremely destructive – not only ruining your home, but harming themselves. I’ve heard of dogs eating through walls and jumping out second story windows that were closed. Why Dogs Suffer From Separation Anxiety So far, canine behaviorists have not been able to identify why some dogs develop separation anxiety. It could be genetic, but anecdotal evidence suggests it’s caused by environmental factors. Dogs … Read more

10 Toys To Keep Your Pup Entertained

The most asked question I get as a trainer is usually, “What toy is best for my dog?” While there is a wide variety of toys that are great for dogs, I thought I’d showcase ones that will not only entertain your pup but maybe even help them become smarter as well! 1. Hol-ee Roller If you have read any of my past dog toy articles, then you know I love this toy. It’s so versatile! They have new shapes, including … Read more

Toss The Treats: Using Everyday Rewards In Training

One of the main reasons many dog owners are hesitant to try positive reinforcement training is because they are worried about always having to have food on them to get their dogs to obey. However, if the training is done correctly, you should not have to use food past the initial learning of the behavior. Sometimes, you might not use food even then, but what you do need is a reward of some type. Why Trainers Use Food At The … Read more

Ask A Dog Trainer: How Do I Get My Distracted Dog To Focus On Me?

You are trying to teach your dog to sit. You’ve tried every trick in the book and he just won’t put that rump on the ground. He’s turning his head every which way, he’s staring off into the distance, he’s rolling around on the ground, he may even be lunging and barking at the bird that just flew by. Sound familiar? If your dog acts like this, it’s time to stop training. When we are training our dogs, we are … Read more

10 Tips For Potty Training A Puppy From A Professional Dog Trainer

If you plan on getting a new puppy, then potty training is probably the first thing on your mind. It’s the one part of puppy ownership that none of us enjoy. Failure at it is one of the reasons dogs are surrendered to shelters. The following ten tips for potty training a puppy will help ensure your success. They are the tips I used with my sheltie when I brought him home at eight weeks – he had two accidents (both my … Read more

Ask A Dog Trainer: What Do I Do If My Dog Is Possessive With Her Toys?

Some dogs are not good at sharing. Once they get possession of a toy, it’s theirs and they do not want you to take it. This can result in growls and, if the owner is not careful, bites. Toy guarding is a fairly common problem that plagues those who were hoping for a nice family dog. Why Some Dogs Growl When You Try To Take Their Toys Behaviorists are not actually certain why dogs do this. On the surface, it’s … Read more

7 Ways Your Dog Talks To You Through Body Language

We all wish our dogs could talk to us – it would make life soo much easier! But did you know your dog does try to speak to you? While it might not be in your language, your dog most definitely communicates with you. The following are a few of the main ways your dog talks to you about things that are important. Teaching your kids your dog’s language can also help to prevent bites from happening. #1 –  They … Read more

11 Tips For A Stress-Free Dog On The 4th Of July

It’s that time of year again! Time for hot dogs, apple pie, and–for some pups and their parents–those darn dreaded fireworks. For many dog owners, the next two weeks are the worst time of the year, as many start setting off noisemakers early. It’s a stressful time for any loving pet parent with a skittish dog. According to PetAmberAlert.com, more pets are lost on the 4th of July than any other day of the year. Keeping your dog calm can … Read more

Ask A Dog Trainer – Do I Have To Walk My Dog?

Do I Have to Walk My Dog

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Walking the dog seems like an essential part of being a dog parent. Yet, many people wonder if they have to be walking their dogs daily. For example, some dogs may dislike walks while others may misbehave while walking in public. So, are walks necessary? Let me start by saying I rarely walk my dogs. As in, … Read more

Ask A Dog Trainer: How Do I Get My Dog To Stop Licking Everything?

Dog licking everything

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. While most of us don’t mind a gentle lick from our furry friend now and then, a dog that constantly licks can be exhausting. Some dogs only lick themselves or humans, but others may lick random objects, furniture, or even the floor. No one wants a big spot of dog saliva on the couch. Plus, obsessive licking … Read more

Ask A Dog Trainer: Why Does My Dog Run & Hide When I Try To Leash Him?

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Most dogs get excited when you take them out for a walk or car ride. They follow you around like they always do… until you reach for the collar and/or leash. Like a bullet, your dog is gone. Then, you spend several minutes trying to track them down. Calling them, bribing them, whatever it takes to get … Read more

Ask A Dog Trainer – How Do I Get My Dog To Stop Attacking The Vacuum?

Training dog to stop attacking vacuum

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. It’s a timeless struggle – dog vs. vacuum. Are you at a point where you dread vacuuming? Or do you schedule vacuuming only when your dog isn’t home? If you relate to either, it’s time to teach your dog that the vacuum is not their mortal enemy. After all, what is it with the vacuum? The main … Read more

Top 10 Tips On Crate Training A Dog

Crate training tips

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Crate training is one of the best things a dog parent can do. It gives your dog a safe, secure place to be when you can’t watch them. It’s handy for potty training, obedience classes, and travel. Keep reading to learn our top 10 tips on crate training. Are you confused when it comes to training? You … Read more

Ask A Dog Trainer: Why Doesn’t My Dog Respond The First Time?

Dog training confusion

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. At the dog park, do you have to call your dog’s name ten times before they come to you? Or maybe you have to say “sit” three times before they respond. It might feel like everyone else’s dog responds immediately, except yours. Related: Spirit Dog Online Training Review: Is SpiritDog Really Worth It? Many frustrated dog parents … Read more

From A Dog Trainer – How To Teach Your Dog To Tell You When They Need To Go Potty

Potty training cue

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Potty training is often the most frustrating part of having a dog. Sadly, many dogs are surrendered to shelters due to potty training issues, but those dogs just need more training sessions and patience. One of the best ways to avoid accidents is to teach your dog to let you know when they need to do their … Read more

Top 5 Tips For Training Your Puppy Not To Bite

Preventing puppy biting

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Puppies bite for many reasons. They use their mouth to explore their environment and to play. They also use it to communicate when they are stressed or don’t like the way you are handling them. But those needle-sharp puppy teeth are no fun on our soft skin because we don’t have a layer of fur to protect … Read more

Top 10 Senior Dog Training Tips

You can’t teach an old dog new tricks is a saying that has been around for decades. But the fact is, you can teach an old dog new tricks, and it’s not that much different from teaching a younger dog. In fact, older dogs have some advantages – attention span being one – that might make them easier to train in some ways. However, there are a few things to think about when you are working with an older dog. … Read more

15 Dog Breeds You Think You Want But Probably Shouldn’t Get

There are hundreds of dog breeds in the world, each with their own unique look, purpose and personality. While many people think they want a certain breed, they sometimes find out that the dog they thought looked really cool is actually a lot of work to live with. This is why so many trainers and rescues try to advice first time owner to avoid certain breeds. Many breeds are becoming more popular on looks alone, but end up most often … Read more

Why Does My Dog Growl At Some People And Not Others?

Dogs are always alert when someone new arrives on the scene. Your dog notices new people immediately, but sometimes he growls at them and sometimes he doesn’t. His growl might indicate aggression, defensiveness or just plain anxiety. Why does he have different reactions to people? Does he know something about them that you don’t? No one can sum up all dogs’ reactions and definitely, each case is unique, but we can look at the way dogs perceive their world and … Read more

Ask A Dog Trainer: How Can I Get My Dog To Stop Breaking His Stay?

Teaching your dog a reliable stay is important. A stay not only makes your life easier, but can save your dog’s life. It can also be a very frustrating experience. You may feel as though no matter what you do, your dog just won’t stay longer than a few seconds. Don’t feel bad, stay is a hard cue because it’s asking your dog for a lot of self-control, which is something most dogs do not naturally have. With a bit … Read more

6 Signs Your Dog Is Living With Fear

While it may be obvious if your dog runs in the opposite direction that she is afraid, dogs have many less obvious signs of fear. You can help ensure your dog doesn’t get to the point where they want to bolt by watching for these subtle signs and reacting to them to make your dog more comfortable. Knowing these signs can also make training easier, as you realize your dog is not being stubborn or ignoring you, but is actually … Read more

6 Tips To Train The Most Versatile “Trick” : The Hand Touch

The hand touch is one of my favorite “tricks” to train because it has so many uses when taught properly. (Check out 6 clever uses here!) A hand touch can turn into a fast recall, a way to keep you dog focused on you, and even help teach heel. It can also be used for a variety of tricks, such as the “dolphin” where your dog jumps in the air. The following tips will help you get that rock-solid hand … Read more

3 Ways to Keep Your Pit Bull Happy And Healthy

Life with a Pit Bull may have its ups and downs – especially if you live in an area that is breed biased. But inside your home, your Pittie provides you unconditional love and friendship, something you most likely won’t get anywhere else. Regardless of what others think, you know the truth about your wonderful best bud and want them to have the best life in return. The following are 3 ways you can thank your Pit Bull for all … Read more

How To Teach Your Husky To Stop Jumping On People

Huskies are energetic, fun loving dogs that have a zest for life that can’t be equaled. This zest sometimes manifests itself in the inability to keep paws on the floor when interacting with humans. Whether he is just so happy to see you or wants the toy in your hand, this behavior is annoying and can even cause injury. So how do you get your Husky to not jump? It may seem like a big task, but if you know … Read more

5 Questions To Ask Yourself Before Getting A Husky

Siberian Huskies are beautiful, intelligent dogs that catch the attention of many would-be owners. Between their wolfish stare and perpetual puppy playfulness, people are often eager to get a Husky without much further thought. But there is a lot that goes into making a Husky a well-mannered, happy and healthy member of any family. If you’ve been thinking about adding a Husky to your house, you should ask yourself the following questions before picking one out. #1 – Can I … Read more

Is My Lab Overweight Or Obese?

Labrador Retrievers are true food hounds and as they age, many of them become a bit lazy. This combination often results in an overweight Lab. Labs seem to be skilled at gaining weight and owners should be aware that all those extra pounds come with a lot of health issues that can even shorten their lifespan. Because of this, Labrador Retriever owners should pay attention to the following 3 signs that their Lab is overweight. If you believe he is ... Read more